Movement-Free Virtual Reality Interface Using Kinesthetic Illusion Induced by Tendon Vibration

Satoshi Tanaka,Keigo Ushiyama,Hiroyuki Kajimoto,Akifumi Takahashi

doi:10.1007/978-3-030-58147-3_35

Abstract

AbstractIn current virtual reality (VR) systems, the physical movement of the body is required, which creates problems of safety, cost, and accessibility. To solve those problems, we propose a system that fixes a user’s body, detects force when a user tries to move, and generates the sensation of movement using kinesthetic illusion caused by tendon vibration. We implemented a system limited to simple motion, and conducted an experiment to evaluate operability, body ownership, and agency. Although we could not statistically verify the effect of kinesthetic illusion, the results suggested that it may be possible that kinesthetic illusion could increase ownership and decrease agency.

Highlights

An interface for manipulating avatars is an essential component of virtual reality (VR)
VR is often described as a system in which users can subjectively move freely while their physical body is lying on a bed
While we cannot conclude that tendon vibration was effective in the movement-free VR interface, it may contribute to the generation of ownership

Summary

Introduction

An interface for manipulating avatars is an essential component of virtual reality (VR). VR is often described as a system in which users can subjectively move freely while their physical body is lying on a bed. Present VR systems reflect the movement of the physical body to the avatar using devices such as position tracking controllers. In VR, the movement of the physical body causes various problems. The risk of collision and injury; the requirement for a large space and equipment; and the problem that people with limited mobility cannot use VR. The development of a VR system that does not require physical movement would lead to the solution of such problems of safety, cost, and accessibility

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion